12 Iconic New York Foods Outsiders Keep Saying Wrong
New York’s food scene is legendary, but if you’re not from here, pronouncing the classics can quickly turn into a tongue-twisting challenge.
Outsiders often stumble over iconic dishes, turning familiar names into amusing mispronunciations.
Whether it’s a bagel, a pretzel, or a slice of pizza, getting it right is almost a rite of passage.
These iconic New York foods don’t just taste amazing, they come with a language all their own that locals know by heart.
1. Katz’s Delicatessen
Tourists often butcher this iconic deli’s name as “Katz” (rhyming with “bats”) when it’s actually pronounced “Kats” (rhyming with “lots”).
Founded in 1888, this Lower East Side institution serves up legendary pastrami sandwiches that have locals lining up alongside visitors.
The proper pronunciation helps you blend in with New Yorkers who’ve been coming here for generations.
2. Russ & Daughters
Newcomers often ask for “Russ AND Daughters” instead of the correct “Russ & (pronounced ‘n’) Daughters.” The subtle difference marks you as an outsider immediately.
Family-owned since 1914, this appetizing shop specializes in smoked fish, particularly their heavenly lox.
Real New Yorkers know to order a “bagel with schmear and lox” while pronouncing schmear as “shmeer,” not “schmeer.”
3. Zabar’s
First-timers say “ZAY-bars” but locals know it’s “ZAH-bars” with emphasis on the first syllable. Mispronounce this name and you’ll immediately reveal your tourist status.
This Upper West Side institution has been selling specialty foods since 1934. Their coffee, smoked fish, and cheese department draw loyal customers who navigate the crowded aisles like pros.
The store’s distinctive orange logo is instantly recognizable to any true New Yorker.
4. Junior’s
Saying “JUNE-yers” instead of “JOO-nyerz” marks you as an out-of-towner at this cheesecake paradise. The distinction might seem minor, but New Yorkers can spot the difference instantly.
Since 1950, this Brooklyn institution has been serving what many consider the city’s best cheesecake.
The original location on Flatbush Avenue still attracts lines of locals and tourists alike. Their orange and white decor has become as iconic as their creamy, rich desserts.
5. Ess-a-Bagel
Visitors stumble when they say “ESS-uh-BAY-gul” instead of the correct “ESS-uh-BAY-gul” with equal emphasis on all syllables. And never, ever say “baggle” unless you want eye rolls from everyone in line.
Opened in 1976, this beloved bagel shop crafts hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels that exemplify the New York style.
Their massive, chewy creations with a crisp exterior are topped with generous schmears of homemade cream cheese.
6. Kossar’s Bialys
Calling them “bye-AL-ees” will get you strange looks because they’re properly called “bee-AL-ees.” Many tourists have never even heard of these onion-filled delights.
Operating since 1936, Kossar’s is the oldest bialy bakery in the United States. These flat, chewy rolls with onion-filled centers are cousins to bagels but without the hole.
True New Yorkers appreciate their subtle flavor and distinctive texture that’s unlike anything else.
7. Artichoke Basille’s Pizza
Newcomers say “buh-SILLZ” but it’s actually “buh-SEEL-ays” with emphasis on the second syllable. Get it wrong and you’ll reveal yourself as a pizza tourist.
Famous for their creamy artichoke pizza, this NYC chain started as a single East Village location in 2008. Their thick, doughy slices loaded with artichoke-spinach cream sauce have created late-night lines around the block. Each slice weighs nearly a pound, making it a substantial meal.
8. Lombardi’s
Tourists say “lom-BAR-dees” while locals know it’s “lom-BAR-deez.” The subtle difference in the final sound separates the natives from the visitors at America’s first pizzeria.
Established in 1905, Lombardi’s claims to be the first pizzeria in the United States. Their coal-fired brick oven produces thin-crust pies with a distinctive char.
The original Spring Street location in Little Italy continues to draw pizza pilgrims seeking authentic New York pizza history.
9. Totonno’s
Out-of-towners say “toh-TON-ohs” with the emphasis on the middle syllable, while Brooklynites know it’s “TOH-toh-nohs” with emphasis on the first syllable.
Founded in 1924 by Antonio “Totonno” Pero, this Coney Island institution serves coal-fired pizzas that pizza aficionados consider sacred.
The tiny, no-frills spot has survived fires and hurricanes. Their pies feature a thin, crispy crust with simple, high-quality toppings applied sparingly.
10. John’s of Bleecker Street
Visitors ask for “John’s on Bleecker” but locals know it’s strictly “John’s of Bleecker.” That little preposition makes all the difference in sounding like you belong.
Slinging coal-fired pies since 1929, this Greenwich Village institution refuses to sell pizza by the slice. Their whole pies emerge from centuries-old brick ovens with perfectly blistered crusts.
The dining room’s wooden booths, carved with decades of initials, add to the authentic New York experience.
11. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
Tourists often drop the “Original” when referring to this beloved spot, immediately marking themselves as outsiders. Locals know the full name matters to distinguish it from imitators.
Family-owned since 1978, this Chinatown landmark serves unique flavors like black sesame, durian, and red bean alongside traditional options.
The tiny shop on Bayard Street often has lines stretching down the block during summer months. Their handmade ice cream represents a perfect blend of Chinese flavors and American dessert traditions.
12. Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery
First-timers say “ka-NISH” when the correct pronunciation is “ka-NISH” with a barely audible “k” sound. Getting it wrong is a dead giveaway you’re not from around here.
Serving potato-filled pastries since 1910, this Lower East Side institution makes knishes the old-fashioned way.
Their dough is stretched by hand before being filled with savory potatoes, kasha, or spinach. The tiny storefront on Houston Street has barely changed in over a century, preserving a taste of old New York.